KR101668935B1 - Footwear uppers with knitted tongue elements - Google Patents

Abstract

The shoe article may incorporate various elements that are at least partially formed through a knitting process, such as a circular or cross-piece process. Examples of elements include a sulpo element, a color element, and a color-wood element. In some configurations, the elements include a compressible region and a flange region. The compressible region may include a free yarn section that imparts compressibility, and the flange region may be utilized to join the components to the shoe article.

Description

{FOOTWEAR UPPERS WITH KNITTED TONGUE ELEMENTS}

This regular US patent application is a continuation-in-part of US patent application Ser. No. 12 / 574,876, filed on October 7, 2009, entitled " Shoe article with upper with knitted element " This patent application claims priority.

Conventional shoe articles generally include two main elements, an upper and a sole structure. The upper is secured to the sole structure to form an empty space inside the shoe for comfortably and securely receiving the foot. The sole structure is fixed in the lower region of the upper so that it is positioned between the upper and the ground. For example, in a running shoe, the sole structure may include a midsole and an outsole. The midsole often includes a polymer foam that weakens the ground reaction force to reduce foot and leg stresses during walking, running, and other gait activities. In addition, the midsole may include a fluid-filled chamber, plate, adjuster, or other element that further weakens the reaction force, enhances stability, or affects the motion of the foot. The outsole is secured to the lower surface of the midsole to provide a ground engaging portion of a durable and wear resistant material, typically a rubber sole structure. The sole structure may also include a sockliner positioned within the void space and close to the lower surface of the foot to enhance the comfort of the shoe.

The upper generally extends on the instep and toe areas of the foot, along the inner and outer sides of the foot, below the feet, and around the heel area of the foot. In some shoe items such as basketball shoes and boots, the upper may extend up and around the ankle to provide support and protection to the ankle. Access to the empty space inside the upper is generally provided by the ankle opening in the heel area of the shoe. A strap adjustment system is often integrated into the upper so as to adjust the upper fit, allowing entry and removal of the foot into the void in the upper. The string adjustment system also allows the wearer to change the particular dimensions of the upper, especially the perimeter, to accommodate the feet of various sizes. In addition, the upper may include a tongue extending below the strap adjustment system to increase the controllability of the shoe, and the upper may incorporate a heel counter to limit the movement of the heel.

Various material elements (e.g., textiles, polymer foam, polymer sheets, leather, synthetic leather) are conventionally used to make the upper. For example, in a running shoe, the upper may have multiple layers, each containing various bonded material elements. As an example, the material elements can be selected to impart elasticity, abrasion resistance, flexibility, air permeability, compressibility, comfort, and moisture-wicking to different regions of the upper. To impart different properties to different areas of the upper, the material elements are often cut into the desired shape and then joined together using a seal or adhesive bond in general. Moreover, material elements are often combined in a layered configuration to impart multiple properties to the same area. As the number and type of material elements incorporated into the upper increases, the time and cost associated with carrying, storing, cutting and joining material elements can also be increased. As the number and type of material elements incorporated into the upper increases, more of the waste from the cutting and sealing process also accumulates. Moreover, an upper with a greater number of material elements may be more difficult to recycle than an upper formed with fewer types and numbers of material elements. Thus, by reducing the number of material elements used in the upper, the waste can be reduced while increasing the manufacturing efficiency and recyclability of the upper.

A shoe article having a sole structure secured to an upper and an upper is disclosed below. The upper comprises a layer of material forming at least a part of the outer surface of the upper. The upper also includes a knitted component formed into a single knit configuration. The knit component may include a compressible region and a flange region. The compressible region forms a portion of the outer surface of the upper and a portion of the opposing inner surface, and the flange region extends outwardly from the compressible region. The flange region may be disposed inward from the material layer, and the flange region may be engaged with the material layer.

In some configurations, the upper may include a sulfo element having a knit component formed in a single knit configuration and forming a majority outer side of the sulfo element. The compressible material may be disposed within the cavity of the knitted component and the end of the knitted component may be secured to the neck region of the upper.

In another configuration, the upper may include a collar element having a knit outer side that forms at least a portion of an outer surface and an inner surface of the upper adjacent the ankle opening of the upper. A plurality of floating yarns may be disposed within the cavity of the knitting element. Additionally, the collar element may be formed as a separate component from the other part of the upper and may be secured to another part of the upper.

Various methods can be used to form components for shoe articles. For example, circular and transverse processes can be used to form various components of a single knit configuration. After knitting, the component can be incorporated into the shoe article. Moreover, the knitting process can be used to form both the compressible area and the flange area of some components. For example, the floating yarn may be placed in the compressible region to enhance compressibility.

Advantages and features of novelty characterizing aspects of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. However, to improve understanding of the advantages and features of novelty, reference is made to the following description and the accompanying drawings which illustrate and illustrate various configurations and concepts related to the present invention.

The foregoing summary and the following detailed description will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
1 is a perspective view of a shoe article.
Figure 2 is an elevation view of the shoe article.
3 is an inner elevational view of the shoe article.
4 is a plan view of a shoe article.
Figures 5A-5C are cross-sectional views of the shoe article formed by the cross-sectional lines 5A-5C, respectively, of Figure 4;
Figure 6 is a perspective view of a sulpo element of a shoe article.
7 is an exploded perspective view of a sulfo element.
8 is a top view of the sulfo element.
9A and 9B are cross-sectional views of a sulfo element formed by the cross-sectional lines 9A and 9B of FIG. 8, respectively.
Figs. 10A to 10J are plan views corresponding to Fig. 8 and showing other forms of the sulfo element.
Figs. 11A-11K are cross-sectional views corresponding to Fig. 9A and showing other forms of the sulfo element.
Figures 12a and 12b are plan views of various bonded sulfo elements.
Figure 13 is a perspective view of a collar element of a shoe article.
Figure 14 is a top view of the collar element.
Figs. 15A and 15B are cross-sectional views of collar elements formed by the cross-sectional lines 15A and 15B of Fig. 14, respectively.
Figs. 16A to 16C are plan views corresponding to Fig. 14 and showing other forms of color elements. Fig.
17A and 17B are plan views of various coupled collar elements.
Fig. 18 is an external elevational view corresponding to Fig. 2 and showing another configuration of the shoe article. Fig.
Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a collar-neck element of the configuration of the shoe article shown in Fig. 18;
Figure 20 is a top view of the collar-neck element.
Figures 21A and 21B are cross-sectional views of the collar-neck element formed by the cross-sectional lines 21A and 21B of Figure 20, respectively.
Figures 22A-22D are cross-sectional views illustrating various methods for corresponding to a portion of Figure 5C and incorporating a color element into a shoe article.
23 is a plan view of another element.
24 is a top view of the sulfo-vamp factor.
Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to Fig. 5A and showing the sulfo-vamp element of the shoe article.
Fig. 26 is a sectional view corresponding to Fig. 5C and showing another configuration of the shoe article.
27A and 27B are plan views of other color elements.
Figs. 28A and 28B are cross-sectional views corresponding to Fig. 9A and showing different configurations of the sulfo elements.
29 is a perspective view of another sulfo element.
FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view of the sulfo element shown in FIG. 29 formed by the cross-sectional line 30 of FIG. 29;
Fig. 31 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to Fig. 30 and showing another configuration of the sulfo element shown in Fig. 29;
32 is a side view of the outer side of another configuration of the shoe article.
33 is a sectional view of the shoe article shown in Fig. 32 formed by the cross-sectional line 33 in Fig.
34 is a plan view of a knit component forming part of the upper of the shoe article shown in Fig.
35 is an exterior elevational view of another configuration of the shoe article.
Fig. 36 is a cross-sectional view of the shoe article shown in Fig. 35 formed by the section line 36 in Fig.
Figure 37 is a plan view of a knit component forming part of the upper of the shoe article shown in Figure 35;

The discussion below and the accompanying drawings disclose a shoe article having an upper that includes various knitting elements such as a sulpo and a collar. Shoe articles are discussed as having a general form suitable for walking or running. The concepts associated with shoes, including the upper and various knitting elements, can also be applied to a variety of different types of athletic shoes, including, for example, baseball, basketball, cross training, cycling, footballing, tennis, soccer, and hiking. The concept can also be applied to shoes that are generally considered to be non-shoes, including dressing, casualization, simplicity, sandals, and work. Thus, the concepts disclosed herein with respect to methods of making knitting elements and knitting elements apply to a wide variety of shoe types.

General Shoe Structure

An article of footwear 10 comprising a sole structure 20 and an upper 30 is shown in Figs. 1 to 5C. For reference, the shoe 10 can be divided into three general zones, that is, the forefoot zone 11, the midsole zone 12, and the heel zone 13, as shown in Figures 2 and 3. The shoe 10 also includes an outer side surface 14 and an inner side surface 15. The forearm zone 11 generally comprises a portion of the shoe 10 corresponding to a joint connecting the toe and the metatarsal to the phalange. The midfoot region 12 generally comprises a portion of the shoe 10 corresponding to the concave region of the foot and the heel region 13 corresponds to the heel region of the foot, including the calcaneus bone. The outer side surface 14 and the inner side surface 15 extend through respective zones 11-13 and correspond to both sides of the shoe 10. The zones 11-13 and sides 14-15 are not intended to define the exact areas of the shoe 10. Rather, regions 11-13 and sides 14-15 are intended to denote the general area of shoe 10 to aid in the discussion below. In addition to the shoe 10, the areas 11-13 and sides 14-15 may also be applied to the sole structure 20, the upper 30 and their respective elements.

The sole structure 20 is fixed to the upper 30 and extends between the foot and the ground when the shoe 10 is worn. The main elements of the sole structure 20 are the midsole 21, the outsole 22 and the insole 23. The midsole 21 is secured to the lower region of the upper 30 and is made of a compressible polymer foam member that weakens the reaction force of the ground (i.e., provides buffering) when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running, (E. G., A polyurethane or ethylvinyl acetate foaming agent). In a further configuration, the midsole 21 may incorporate a fluid-rechargeable chamber, plate, regulator, or other element that further weakens the reaction force, enhances stability, or affects the motion of the foot, May be initially formed from a fluid rechargeable chamber. The outer window 22 is secured to the lower surface of the middle window 21 and can be formed from a textured abrasion resistant rubber material to provide a static frictional force. The insole 23 is disposed within the upper 30 and positioned to extend below the lower surface of the foot. While this configuration of the sole structure 20 provides examples of sole structures that may be used with the upper 30, various other conventional or non-traditional configurations of the sole structure 20 may also be used. Thus, the configuration and characteristics of any sole structure used with the sole structure 20 or upper 30 can be varied considerably.

The upper 30 is formed from a variety of elements that are coupled to provide a structure for securely and comfortably receiving the feet. The various elements generally form an empty space in the shoe 10 to receive and fix the feet to the sole structure 20, although the configuration of the upper 30 may vary considerably. The surface of the void space within the upper 30 is formed to receive the foot and extends on the foot and toe area of the foot, along the inner and outer sides of the foot, below the foot, and around the heel area of the foot. A portion of the upper 30 is formed from the various layers 31,32 as shown in Figures 5A-5C. The layer 32 forms part of the outer surface of the upper 30 while the layer 32 forms part of the inner surface of the upper 30 (i.e., the surface forming the void space inside the upper 30) . Each layer 31, 32 may be formed from one or more of a plurality of material elements (e.g., textiles, polymer foam, leather, synthetic leather) that are sealed together or bonded together. As an example, layer 31 may be formed from synthetic leather material and layer 32 may be formed from quick drying textile material. As another example, each layer 31, 32 may be formed from different textile materials. In some configurations, a polymer foam layer may be disposed between the layers 31,32 to enhance comfort. In another configuration of the upper 30, instead of the layers 31 and 32, a one-layer, three-layer or other multi-layer structure formed of various materials may be used.

The strap 33 extends through the various strap holes 34 and across the neck region of the upper 30 to allow the wearer to change the dimensions of the upper 30 to accommodate the foot portion. That is, the strap 33 is designed to tighten the upper 30 around the foot (i.e., tie the strap 33) and to loosen the upper 30 (i.e., release the strap 33) Lt; / RTI > The sulpo element 40 extends under the strap 33 to enhance comfort and control of the shoe 10. The upper 30 also includes a collar element 50 which is disposed at least in the heel section 13. [ In addition to enhancing the comfort of the shoe 10, the collar element 50 defines an ankle opening for providing access to the open space within the upper 30. That is, the ankle opening formed by the collar element 50 facilitates entry and removal of the foot into the void space when the strap 33 is loosened, in particular to give loose fit to the upper 30 around the foot.

The portion of the upper 30, including the sulpo element 40 and the collar element 50, may be a knit component formed of a relatively small number of material elements. Reducing the number of material elements used in the upper, as discussed in the Background section above, can reduce waste and also increase the manufacturing efficiency and recyclability of the upper. Conventional upper sleeves and collar are often formed from a plurality of bonded material elements. However, as discussed in more detail below, the sulfo element 40 and the collar element 50 are formed primarily through knitting processes (not sewing and turning methods) that reduce waste and increase manufacturing efficiency and recyclability . In addition, the structure of the sulpo element 40 and the collar element 50 can incorporate a lesser number of seams or other discontinuities, thereby enhancing the overall comfort of the shoe 10.

Sulpho element composition

The sulpo element 40 is disposed in the middle of the neck region of the upper 30 and extends from the forearm region 11 to the heel region 13 as well as from the outer side 14 to the inner side 15. The side area of the sulpo element 40 is positioned to abut adjacent an area of the layer 32 forming the string hole 34 and the central area of the sulpo element 40 is in contact with the strap 33, Between the regions of the strap 33 that are exposed. In the foot zone 11, the sulfo element 40 is bonded to the layers 31 and 32, but the remainder of the sulfo element 40 is generally free or is not fixed to other areas of the upper 30. In the heel zone 13, the sulfo element 40 may protrude from the ankle opening formed by the collar element 50.

6 to 9B, the main component of the sulfoelement 40 is the knitted envelope 41 and the compressible core 42. [ Generally, the envelope 41 is formed as a knit element extending around the core 42. More specifically, the envelope 41 forms most of the outside of the sulfo element 40 and also forms an internal cavity in which the core 42 is disposed. The core 42 is a compressible structure within the sulpo element 40 that enhances the overall comfort of the shoe 10. The core 42 may also be formed from, for example, a yarn or fluid-filled chamber, although the core 42 may be formed from a polymer foam material (e.g., polyurethane or ethyl vinyl acetate foam material). In some configurations, the sulfo element 40 may include additional elements, such as (a) a logo or trademark which is screen printed, stitched or bonded to the envelope 41, (b) (C) a string of instructions and a material placard that is sealed or bonded to the envelope 41. In the embodiment shown in FIG.

The envelope 41 has a generally tubular structure forming a cavity in which the core 42 is disposed. In general, the envelope 41 includes an upper section 43, a lower section 44, a first end 45, a second end 46, and a pair of flanges 47. The upper section 43 extends over one surface of the core 42 and is exposed to the outside of the shoe 10 between areas of the strap 33 that intersect with each other. The lower section 44 positioned opposite the upper section 43 extends over the other surface of the core 42 and defines an inner surface of the upper 30 (i.e., a surface forming an empty space inside the upper 30) As shown in FIG. 9A and 9B, zones 43 and 44, for example, are disposed on opposite sides of core 42 and are coupled together to effectively form a layer of knit material that effectively extends around core 42. The first end 45 has a closed configuration while the second end 46 defines an opening through which the core 42 is inserted into the cavity in the shell 41. The flange 47 is disposed at the second end 46 and on the opposite side of the opening. A flange 47 may extend outwardly from the sulpo element 40 and be used to join the sulpo element 40 to the upper 30. 5A, a flange 47, for example, extends between the layers 31, 32 in the neck region of the upper 30 and is fixed to either or both of the layers 31, 32. Each zone 43 and 44 includes one of the flanges 47 but the envelope 41 may include only a single flange 47 or in some configurations both flanges 47 may be absent.

Many conventional footwear sulphones have a shell formed from a number of textile elements or other material elements that are joined through seams or joints while the shell 41 is made by a knitting process such as circular knitting or flat knitting Are formed as one-piece elements. More specifically, the envelope 41 is generally formed in a single knit configuration through a knitting process. As used herein, knit components such as sheath 41 are defined as being formed as a "single knit configuration" when constructed as a one-piece knit element with substantially no additional seams or joining processes. That is, the knitting process forms various features and structures of the envelope 41 substantially without the need for substantial additional manufacturing steps or processes. In some configurations, the envelope 41 is formed when the first end 45 or the second end 46 is closed through sealing or bonding to seal the core 42 within the envelope 41, And is maintained in a state of being formed into a single knit structure when trimming is performed after the process. The envelope 41 may also be in a state of being formed into a single knit configuration when other non-critical elements (e.g., logos, trademarks, string rings, cautionary indications and material placards) are added to the sulfo element 40 after the knitting process maintain.

The knitting process used to form the sheath 41 of a single knit configuration generally involves mechanically manipulating one or more yarns to form a series of stitches. Various different types of yarns may be incorporated into the envelope 41 during the knitting process. For example, the polyester can provide relatively high durability and recyclability, and can impart non-stretchability in accordance with the knitting pattern in the shell 41. Cotton provides soft hands, natural aesthetics, and biodegradability. Elastane and stretchable polyester each provide significant stretch and repeatability, and stretchable polyester also provides relatively easy recyclability. Rayon provides high gloss and hygroscopicity. Wool also provides high hygroscopicity in addition to the adiabatic properties. Nylon is a durable and flame retardant material with relatively high strength. In addition to the particular material, other aspects of the yarn may affect the properties of the envelope 41 and the sulfo 40. [ For example, the yarn may be a monofilament yarn or a multifilament yarn. The yarns may also comprise separate filaments, each formed of a different material. The yarn may also comprise filaments, each formed of two or more different materials, such as filaments having an envelope-core configuration or two-component yarns having two halves formed of different materials. Different denier as well as different degrees of twisting and wrinkling can affect the properties of the envelope 41 and the sulpo 40. [ The yarn can also maintain its desired shape when formed from heat-sensitive materials. Thus, various types of yarns may be incorporated into the envelope 41, depending on the desired properties for the envelope 41 and the sulfurous 40. [

The sulfo element 40 provides a variety of advantages over conventional shoe soles. For example, the sulfoelement 40 enhances the comfort of the shoe by incorporating less shim or other discontinuities in the area in contact with the foot. As another example, the sulfo element 40 includes relatively few material elements. By reducing the number of material elements used in the upper, as discussed in the Background section above, the waste can be reduced while increasing the manufacturing efficiency and recyclability of the upper. In order to further increase the efficiency, formation of the envelope 41 through the knitting process limits the number of times of cutting or other processes that generally generate waste, and creates a relatively difficult profile of sealing and turning methods.

Configure other sulpo elements

The configuration of the sulfurous element 40 discussed above provides examples of suitable configurations for the shoe 10 and various other types of shoes. However, the sulfo element 40 may incorporate a wide variety of other features. If the envelope 41 is formed through a circular or cross-section, the overall shape of the sulfoelement 40 can vary considerably. For example, FIG. 10A shows a form in which the sulfo element 40 has a longer length and a smaller width than that in FIGS. 6-8, while FIG. 10B shows a case in which the sulfo element 40 has a shorter length and a larger width Fig. Referring to Fig. 10C, the sulpo element 40 has a concave side area. Another form tapered so that the sulfo element 40 has a generally triangular shape is shown in FIG. In addition, the sulfo element 40 may exhibit a substantially diamond-like shape, as shown in FIG. 10E. Referring to Fig. 10F, a flange 47 may also be absent from the envelope 41. Fig.

Various methods can be used to give the various shapes shown in Figs. 6-8 and Figs. 10A-10F. For example, the circular or transverse process used to form the envelope 41 can impart any of a variety of shapes. That is, the knitting machine may be programmed to mechanically manipulate the yarn to form any of the various types described above, as well as stitches that are combined to impart various other shapes. As another example, a stretcher configuration may be disposed within the cavity of the shell 41, and upon application of heat or steam, the configuration of the straater may alter the overall shape of the shell 41. [ In addition, the shape of the core 42 can be modified to give a different shape to the shell 41. The advantage of using a different form of the stator form or the core 42 is that the plurality of shells 41 can be formed in substantially the same shape and the stator form or differently formed cores 42 can have different sizes Can be used to impart to the sulpo 40 a shape suitable for a shoe or a different type of shoe.

The form of the envelope 41 shown in Figures 6-8 incorporates a single kind of yarn and a single stitch type. That is, the envelope 41 has a generally continuous form in which the properties imparted by the yarn and stitch types are substantially uniform across the various regions of the envelope 41. [ By varying yarn and / or stitch type used in the various zones of the envelope 41, the characteristics of the various zones can be changed. Thus, yarn and stitch types can be modified to impart different properties to different regions of the sulfurous 40. [ Moreover, both the circular and transverse yarns allow a combination of yarn and stitch types to be selected for the various zones of the envelope 41, so that the characteristics of the zones are selected on the basis of comfort or performance characteristics.

As discussed above, the envelope 41 can incorporate various yarn and stitch types. As an example, the envelope 41 is shown in Figure 10g as having two zones formed from different types of yarns. The zone adjacent to the first end 45 is formed from one kind of yarn while the zone adjacent to the second end 46 is formed from another type of yarn. While one zone may incorporate elastane to enhance its elasticity, other zones may incorporate nylon to increase wear resistance and durability. Similarly, one zone may incorporate yarns having one denier, while another zone may incorporate yarns having larger deniers to increase thickness or bulk. As another example, the stitch type can be changed between zones as shown in Fig. 10H. The area adjacent to the first end 45 includes stitches imparting a relatively textured form while the area adjacent to the second end 46 has a textured form that can impart stretch or different aesthetic qualities . The type of yarn used in the different zones of Figure 10h may also be varied to further increase or change the properties of the sulfurous 40. [ As a related matter, the density of the knit in the envelope 41 can be varied between zones, for example to make the zone less permeable or stiffer. Thus, the envelope 41 may exhibit various properties in different zones depending on the particular yarn and type of knitting selected for the zones.

The yarn and the type of knitting can also be modified to improve aspects associated with assembling the shoe 10. Referring to FIG. 10i, the envelope 41 shows a rib shape around the opening of the second end 46. The ribbed configuration may be stretched to allow insertion of the core 42 and then the ribbed configuration may be retracted to ensure that the core 42 remains properly positioned within the shell 41. The type of knitting can also form various holes in the envelope 41 as shown in Figure 10j. In addition to imparting greater permeability through which air circulates within the upper 30, the apertures can increase both the flexibility and stretchability of the sulfurous 40. As another example, another characteristic that may be altered by selecting a particular yarn and knitting type for the sheath 41 is liquid permeability, the direction in which the sheath 41 is elongated or elongated, and the stiffness of the sheath 41 .

The overall shape of the core 42 may also vary depending on various factors, including the size and type of shoes in which the sulpo 40 is incorporated. For example, the thickness, length, and width of the core 42 may be varied. Referring to FIG. 11A, the core 42 exhibits a tapered shape. The core 42 may also have an outline as shown in FIG. 11B. In some configurations of the sulpo 40, the core 42 may be formed from two distinct elements (e. G., Foam elements having different densities) as shown in Fig. 11C. In a similar configuration, the core 42 may be formed from two superimposing elements (e.g., foam elements having different densities) that give a greater thickness and contour as shown in Fig. 11D. The foaming element can be used as the core 42, but various other materials can also be used. Referring to FIG. 11E, various floating yarns are disposed in the cavity defined by the shell 41. As described in more detail below with respect to the collar element 50, the transverse process can place the floating yarn in a cavity formed between the knitted layers. Referring to FIG. 11F, the cut end from the yarn in the circular process provides a material for the core 42, for example. Similarly, a ring of yarns similar to the rings in the terry fabric material may provide a material for the core 42. In some configurations, the core 42 may also be formed from a fiber mat made of recycled textile and yarn material used in other areas of the upper 30, or the core 42 may be a fluid-filled bladder.

Although the envelope 41 may be formed in a single knit configuration, the envelope 41 may also be formed from conjoined elements that are each formed through a knitting process. Referring to Figure 11G, the envelope 41 includes a first knit element adjacent the first end 45 and a second knit element extending from the first knit element to the second end 46, They are joined together through sutures. In some configurations, the seal may extend throughout the sulpo 40 to impart contours or other features to the sulpo 40, as shown in Fig. 11H. The second end 46 may have an open configuration for inserting the core 42 but a flap may be formed in the lower section 44 to insert the core 42 as shown in FIG. As described above, other elements, including a string loop, may be added to the envelope 41, as shown in Figure 11J. Alternatively, a string loop may be formed in a single knit configuration with the shell 41 during the transverse process, as shown in Figure 11k.

Based on the above discussion, various features of the envelope 41 and core 42 may be modified to impart different properties to the sulfurous 40. [ As discussed, the overall shape of the envelope 41 may vary depending on the type of shoe to which the sulpo 40 is incorporated or the size of the shoe. In some configurations, the yarn and / or stitch types may also be varied between different zones of the envelope 41 to impart different characteristics. The core 42 may also have various shapes or may be formed from various types of elements.

Knitting Process

Various knitting processes, including circular and cross-section, can be used to make the envelope 41. The circular piece is a type of knitting that produces a seamless tube in the form of a substantially sheath 41. A variety of knitting machines can be used to form the envelope 41 having a circular knitting structure. For example, individual sockliners use individual latch-hook needles to make each stitch in a circular frame. Depending on the type of circular knitting machine used, the first end 45 may be closed as part of the knitting cycle, or an additional finishing step may be performed to close the first end 45. Crosspieces are a method for producing knit materials that are periodically turned (i. E., The material is knitted while alternating sides). The two surfaces of the material (otherwise referred to as the face) are typically configured as a surface (i.e., a surface facing outward toward the observer side) and an inside surface (i.e., a surface facing away from the observer).

Advantageously, both the circular and transverse yarns may be formed by a variety of yarns, such as (a) various yarn types that impart different properties to distinct regions of the envelope 41, and (b) Can be used to form the envelope 41 having various types of knitting. Although each of the circular and transverse pieces can be used to manufacture the envelope 41 of various configurations, the transverse piece can be used to (a) place the floating yarn in the envelope 41 to form the core 42 as in FIG. 11 , (b) to add additional features to the sulpo 40, including superimposing a knit layer that forms a string loop in a single knit configuration, as in Fig. 11i.

While the edges of many textile elements incorporated in the shoe soles are cut to expose the ends of the yarns forming the textile elements, the envelope 41 may be formed to have a finished form when manufactured through circular or transverse flutes. That is, the circular piece or the transverse piece can be used to form the envelope 41 so that the end of the yarn in the envelope 41 is substantially not at the edge of the envelope 41. [ An advantage of the finishing form is that the yarn forming the edge of the envelope 41 is less likely to loosen and a lesser finishing step is required after the envelope 41 is made. By forming the finishing edge, the integrity of the envelope 41 is strengthened and less post-processing steps are required or no need to prevent loosening. Also, the loose yarn is less likely to interfere with the aesthetic appearance of the sulfurous 40. In other words, the finished form of the envelope 41 can increase the durability and aesthetic quality of the sulfurous 40 while increasing manufacturing efficiency.

The circular knitting machine and the flat knitting machine can be used to form a separate shell 41. To increase the manufacturing efficiency, the knitting machine can also be used to form a series of bonded envelopes 41 as shown in Figs. 12A and 12B. That is, the knitting machine can form a single component comprising a plurality of envelopes 41. Referring to Fig. 12A, each shell 41 may have substantially the same shape and size. Alternatively, each envelope 41 may have a different shape and size as shown in FIG. 12B. Furthermore, the knit release area can be knitted into the series of envelopes 41 so that the various envelopes 41 are separated without requiring a cutting operation.

Configuring Color Elements

The collar element 50 extends from the heel section 13 and from the outer side 14 to form an ankle opening for providing access to the foot space in the foot. The collar elements 50, shown separately in Figures 13-15b, are formed by two layers of knitting material, in particular the outer layer 51 and the opposing inner layer 52, which are overlapped and are at least partly in the same space, These layers surround a plurality of floating yarns 53. While the edges of the layers 51 and 52 are fixed relative to each other in a seamless manner (i.e., a single knit configuration) through a knitting process, the central area between the layers 51 and 52 is the same as the area in which the float yarns 53 are disposed They are not fixed with respect to each other. Thus, the layer of fabric material effectively forms a tube or tubular structure, and the floating yarns 53 can be oriented or oriented so as to be disposed or laid between the layers 51, 52 and approximately parallel to the surface of the layers 51, have. That is, the floating yarn 53 extends between the layers 51, 52 and also through the inner cavity between the layers 51, 52 to fill the cavity. While the layers 51 and 52 are formed from mechanically engineered yarns (e.g., via a transverse process), the floating yarns 53 are generally free during the knitting process, or alternatively, between the layers 51 and 52, Lt; / RTI >

The outer layer 51 forms part of the outer surface of the upper 30 in the region of the ankle opening while the inner layer 52 forms the inner surface of the upper 30 To form a part of the surface. In the upper region of the collar element 50, the layers 51 and 52 are joined together in a seamless manner. Similarly, the layers 51 and 52 are joined together in a seamless manner in the lower region of the collar element 50. Flange 54 is also used to extend outward from layers 51 and 52 and to couple collar element 50 against the remainder of upper 30. More specifically, the flange 54 extends between the layers 31 and 32 as shown in Figs. 5A and 5C and is fixed to either or both of the layers 31 and 32. Fig.

The presence of the floating yarn 53 enhances the comfort of the shoe 10 in the area of the ankle opening by imparting a compressive feature to the collar element 50. Many conventional shoe articles incorporate polymer foam elements or other compressible materials into the color area. Unlike a conventional shoe article, the collar element 50 provides a compressible structure using a floating yarn 53. In some arrangements, a foam element or other fiber element (e.g., a cut end of a floating yarn and a yarn) may be disposed in the collar element 50 instead of the floating yarn 53.

Any yarn among the various types of yarns described above with respect to the envelope 41 may also be used for the color element 50. [ In some configurations, the yarns used in the layers 51 and 52 may be the same as the yarns used in the floating yarns 53, or different types of yarns may be used in the floating yarns 53. As with the sheath element 41, the collar element 50 may be formed with different yarns in different zones or different types of stitches in different zones.

The collar element 50 may be formed through a transverse process to have a single knit configuration. Thus, the collar element 50 is constructed as a one-piece knitting element substantially free of additional sealing or bonding processes. That is, the knitting process substantially forms various features and structures of the color element 50 without requiring significant additional processing. As described above, the knitting can be accomplished by, for example, (a) imparting different properties to distinct regions of the color element 50, and (b) imparting different properties to distinct regions of the color element 50 And can be used to form the color element 50 to have various knitting types. The crosspieces can also be formed by (a) forming tubular structures of layers 51 and 52, (b) forming flanges 54 to extend outwardly in a seamless manner from tubular structures of layers 51 and 52 And (c) placing the floating yarn 53 between the layers 51 and 52. In this case,

As another matter, the collar element 50 may be formed to have a finished shape when manufactured through the crosspiece. That is, the crosspieces can be used to form the collar element 50 such that the end of the yarn is substantially free of the edge of the collar element 50. As with the envelope 41, the advantage of the finishing form is that the yarn is unlikely to be loosened and a lesser finishing step is required after manufacture. By forming a finishing edge, the integrity of the collar element 50 is enhanced and less post-processing steps are required, or no need, to prevent loosening. Also, loose yarns are less likely to interfere with the aesthetic appearance of the collar element 50.

The specific shape of the collar element 50 in Figs. 13 and 14 is intended to provide an example of a shape suitable for the shoe 10. Various other shapes may also be used. By way of example, FIG. 16A shows more shapes in outline. As another example, Figures 16b and 16c illustrate a simpler color profile that can be incorporated into various shoe types.

The weft knitting machines can be used to form individual collar elements 50. To increase manufacturing efficiency, a knitting machine can also be used to form a series of engaging collar elements 50 as shown in Figures 17A and 17B. That is, the knitting machine can form a single component comprising a plurality of color elements 50. 17A, each of the collar elements 50 has substantially the same shape, but may have a different size suitable for different size shoe 10. Alternatively, each color element 50 may have a different shape and size as shown in Figure 17B. A knit release area may be knitted into the series of collar elements 50 to cause the various collar elements 50 to be separated without requiring a cutting operation. More specifically, release threads 55, which are disposed in the release area during the knitting process, may extend between the various color elements 50. By pulling or otherwise removing the release thread 55, the collar element 50 can be separated without cutting or other manufacturing steps. A similar release thread can be used to separate the various envelopes shown in Figures 12a and 12b.

Collar-neck element

(60) extending at least partially around the ankle opening and extending into the neck region of the shoe (10) to form various strap rings on the outer side (14). Is shown in Fig. Similar color-wood elements can also be placed on the inner side 15. The collar-neck element 60 is similar in construction to the collar element 50 and includes an outer layer 61, an opposing inner layer 62, a plurality of floating yarns 63, and a flange 64. The edges of the layers 61 and 62 are fixed to each other but the central region between the layers 61 and 62 is generally not fixed to one another to form a cavity in which the floating yarns 63 are disposed. Thus, the layer of knit material effectively forms a tube or tubular structure, and the floating yarn 63 can be placed or placed between the layers 61, 62.

The outer layer 61 forms part of the outer surface of the upper 30 in the region of the ankle opening while the inner layer 62 forms the inner surface of the upper 30 To form a part of the surface. In the upper region of the collar element 50, the layers 61 and 62 are joined together in a seamless manner. Similarly, the layers 61, 62 are joined together in a seamless manner in the lower region of the collar-neck element 60. Flange 64 is also used to extend outward from layers 61 and 62 to engage collar-neck element 60 with the rest of upper 30. As in the collar element 50, the flange 64 extends between the layers 31, 32 and is fixed to either or both of the layers 31, 32. The flange 64 extends into the neck region and forms various string holes 34. A portion of the flange 64 adjacent the string hole 34 may also extend between the layers 31 and 32 and be secured to either or both of the layers 31 and 32. [

The color-wood element 60 may be formed through a transverse process to have a single knit configuration and may also be formed to have a finish configuration. In addition, any of a wide variety of yarn or stitch types may also be used for the color-wood element 60. [ The particular shape of the collar-neck element 60 of Figures 19 and 20 is intended to provide an example of a shape suitable for the shoe 10. In the embodiment shown in Figs. 19 and 20, the collar-neck element 60 is limited to the outer side 14 and the other element can be used on the inner side 15. However, in other configurations, a single collar-neck element 60 may extend around the heel section 13 to form an ankle opening in both sides 14 and 15, Can extend through the neck region of both sides 14 and 15 to form respective string holes 34. [ Various other shapes may also be used. As with envelope 41 and collar element 50, the knitting machine can form a single component comprising a plurality of engaging collar-shaped elements 60 to increase manufacturing efficiency.

Another element 70, which is a combination of the sulpo element 40 and the collar-neck element 60, is shown in Fig. Although the transverse and annular elements can be used to form a relatively small area of the upper 30 (i.e., the area formed by the sulpo element 40, the collar element 50, and the collar-neck element 60) , The knitting process can also be used to form larger areas with a single knit configuration. As another example, a sulfo-vamp element 80 is shown in FIG. The sulfo-vamp element 80 includes a sulfo region 81 and a vamp region 82 formed in a single knit configuration. While the sphere region 81 may have the general shape of the sulfo element 40, the vamp region 82 may be a single material layer, for example. As shown in Fig. 25, when incorporated into the shoe 10, the bump region 82 can form an inner lining. Moreover, a portion of the vamp region 82 may be exposed through the holes in the layers 31, 32. The bump region 82 may be formed to exhibit a single kind of knitted structure, but may have various knitting structures. For example, the regions exposed through the holes of the layers 31 and 32 may be formed with various holes to enhance the air permeability.

Shoes integration

Each of the sulpo element 40, collar element 50, and collar-neck element 60 includes a compressible region and a flange region. Generally, the compressible region forms a comfortable structure that can be associated with the foot, while the flange region is used to couple the elements (e.g., by joining layers 31 and 32) to the shoe 10. With respect to the sulfo element 40, the compressible region includes a portion of the sulfo element 40 in which the core 42 is disposed, and the flange region includes two flanges 47. With respect to the collar element 50, the compressible region includes the layers 51 and 52 and the floating yarn 53, and the flange region includes the flange 54. [ Similarly, and with respect to the collar-neck element 60, the compressible region includes the layers 61, 62 and the floating yarn 63, and the flange region includes the flange 64. In each or these elements, a variety of flanges 47, 54, 64 extend outwardly from the compressible region and extend inwardly from one of the material layers forming the upper 30 (i. E., Layer 31) And the various flanges 47, 54, 64 are associated with the material layer or other part of the upper 30.

5A and 5C, a flange 47 from the sulpo element 40 and a flange 54 from the collar element 50 are disposed between the layers 31 and 32 to form the layers 31 and 32 Lt; / RTI > In another form, the flanges 47, 54 may be joined to an upper formed from a single layer or may be joined to an upper formed from multiple layers. For example, FIG. 22A shows a form in which the collar element 50 is combined with the area of the upper 30 containing only layer 31. The flange 54 may be coupled to the upper 30 from the material layer inwardly, such as the layer 32, while Fig. 22b illustrates the manner in which the collar element 50 is coupled with the outer side of the layer 31. Fig. 22C shows a configuration in which the collar element 50 is joined to the area of the upper 30 where the center layer 35 is present and the flange 54 is positioned between the layers 32 and 35. Fig. 22D, the collar element 50 includes two compressible areas where a floating yarn 53 is present and one of the compressible areas is exposed through a hole in the layer 31. In another embodiment, A similar concept can be applied to the manner in which the sulpo element 40 and the color-wood element 60 are combined with the other area of the upper 30. [ 26, the flange 54 from the collar element 50 extends along the inner surface of the void space in the upper 30 to form a continuous lining. Thus, the manner in which the flanges 47, 54, 64 are used to couple the elements to the shoe article can be significantly modified.

When knitting the collar-neck element 60, the opposing faces of the layers 61, 62 and the flange 64 can be knit symmetrically and of the same quality. When formed in this manner, the collar-neck element 60 can be used in either the lateral side 14 or the intermediate side 15. That is, the color-wood element 60 may be integrated on either side of the shoe 10, thereby having a symmetrical aspect that reduces the types of elements that are manufactured for use in the shoe 10.

A further advantage of forming knit elements with opposite sides of the same quality is that the individual elements can be incorporated into the form of the shoe 10 for either the right foot or the left foot. Referring to Figures 27A and 27B, for example, opposite sides of another color element 80 are shown. The collar element 80 is similar to the collar element 50 and comprises a) an outer portion 81 intended to extend to the outer side 14 of the shoe 10; b) And an inner portion 82 intended to extend to the inner side 15. Portions 81 and 82 are formed differently to impart an asymmetrical aspect to the side surface 14,15 to the collar element 80. [ However, the opposite sides or sides of the collar element 80 are symmetrical and of the same quality. When incorporated into the shoe 10, the outwardly facing side is dependent on whether the shoe 10 is molded for the right or left foot. 27B is outward, and the opposite side (i.e., the side shown in FIG. 27A) is in the form of a shoe for the left foot, (10). ≪ / RTI > Accordingly, the same color element 80 can be incorporated into the shoe 10 for the right foot and left foot, depending on whether the side is facing outwardly. The advantage to this configuration is that the types of elements that are manufactured for use with different types of shoes 10 are reduced.

A registration mark may be knit on the elements to aid in incorporating the knitting element into the shoe 10. That is, yarns of different colors or different types of stitches may be knitted into the elements to form registration marks. As an example, the element 70 includes a registration mark 71 disposed at the center, as shown in Fig. When integrating the element 70 into the shoe 10, the registration mark 71 can be utilized to ensure that the element 70 is positioned centrally and properly aligned with other elements. A similar registration mark may be used for the sulpo element 40 (i.e., on the flange 47), the collar element 50, and the collar-neck element 60.

A sulfo element containing a material loop

The sulfo element can incorporate any of a variety of free yarn sections. The advantage of incorporating a free yarn section in the sulfo element is that the compressibility or padding area of the sulfo element is thereby formed. For this application, a "free yarn section" or variant thereof includes interlocking loops of a knitting structure such as a floating yarn, an inlaid yarn, a terry loop, an end of the yarn, and a cut segment of the yarn Defined as a segment or part of a yarn that does not directly form a yarn.

In various configurations and with reference to Figures 11e and 11f respectively, the free yarn section may be various floating yarns disposed within a cavity defined by the shell 41, or a cut end from the yarn in a circular knitting process. Also, in some configurations, the free yarn section may be a loop of yarn similar to a loop of terry fabric material that provides the material for the core 42. Such a loop can be part of the knitting structure and extend outward from the section of the yarn defining the path and bone of the knitting structure.

For example, the plurality of material rings 48 may be disposed within the inner cavity defined by the shell 41 and may form part or all of the core 42. [ A plurality of material rings 48 may extend substantially throughout the entire sulfo element 40 to form substantially all of the core 42 as shown in Figure 28A. 28B, a plurality of material rings 48 may extend through a portion of the sulfo element 40 to form a portion of the core 42 and other portions of the core 42 A polymeric foam material, a yarn, a fluid-filled chamber, and a fiber mat.

The material loop 48 may be formed in a single knit configuration having an upper section 43 of the envelope 41, a lower section 44 of the envelope 41, or both. That is, the material loop 48 may be formed during the knitting process to form the envelope 41. Furthermore, the material loop 48 may also be formed from the same yarn as the remainder of the envelope 41. In addition, substantially all of the material rings 48 may be disposed within the inner cavity of the shell 41, but some material rings 48 may be disposed on the outer surface of the shell 41 in some configurations .

Some of the sulfo elements may include other knitted structures as well as knitted envelope components. For example, as shown in FIGS. 29 and 30, the sulfo element 140 includes a knitted envelope 141 and a compressible core 142. The envelope 141 is formed as a knit element extending around the core 142. More specifically, the envelope 141 forms a significant portion of the exterior of the sulfo element 140 and also forms an internal cavity in which the core 142 is disposed. The core 142 is a compressible structure within the sulfo element 140 that enhances the overall comfort of the shoe 10. Core 142 is shown formed from material ring 148. However, in some configurations, the core 142 may be at least partially formed from other free yarn sections or other materials, including a polyfoam, a fluid-filled chamber, and a fiber mat. Thus, the sulfo element 140 may incorporate various structural features of the sulfo element 40.

In comparison with the sulfo element 40, the sulfo element 140 includes two peripheral knitted structures 150 extending outwardly from a portion of the periphery of the envelope 141. More specifically, the perimeter knitting structure 150 may extend outwardly from opposite sides of the envelope 141 to form opposite edges of the sulpo element 140, and may include peripheral bindings 151. In this configuration, the peripheral knitting structure 150 has a knitting structure of a different kind from the envelope 141, and does not form part of the inner cavity in which the core 142 is disposed. That is, the sulfo element 140 may be formed with regions having different types of knitting structures. In another configuration, as shown in Figure 31, the surrounding knit structure 150 may not have a different area of the sulfo element 140. [ Moreover, different regions of the sulfo element 140 can also be formed from different types of yarns. Accordingly, the sulfo element 140 can be formed to have regions with different types of knitting structures or yarns.

In some configurations of the shoe 10, in addition to incorporating the sulpo element 40 or the sulpo element 140, most of the upper 30 extends around the wearer's foot and is configured to conform to the shape of the foot, (36). In such a configuration, the knit component 36 is threaded over each of the zones 11-13 along both the outer side 14 and the inner side 15 above the front zone 11 and around the heel zone 13. [ Can be extended. The knitted component 36 may also provide access to the void space by forming at least a portion of the void space within the upper 30 and an ankle opening. For example, as shown in Figures 32-34, the sulpo element 40 of the upper 30 may be configured as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 338,726, entitled Dua, filed December 8, 2008 Which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The sulpo element 40 may be secured to the knit component 36 by a seal 37. As another example, as shown in FIGS. 35-37, the sulfo element 140 of the upper 30 is described in U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 048,514, entitled Huffa et al, filed March 15, Which is constructed as described above, by means of a seal 37, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Thus, a sulfo element (40, 140) comprising a material loop (48) or other free yarn section can be used with the knit component to provide an upper formed substantially from the knitting element or component.

The knitting component 36 may incorporate different knitting structures in different areas of the knitting component 36 and may incorporate different types of yarns in different areas of the knitting component 36 to produce a knit It is possible to confer specific characteristics and advantages to different regions as discussed in application Ser. No. 13 / 048,514. Similarly, the sulfo element 40 and the sulfo element 140 may also incorporate different knitting structures, different types of yarns, or both, as described above. Moreover, the knitting structure incorporated in the area of the knitting component 36 may be substantially identical to the knitting structure incorporated in the sulfo component 40 or the sulfo component 140, and may be integrated into the area of the knitting component 36 The type of yarn that is introduced may be substantially the same as the type of yarn incorporated in the sulfo element 40 or the sulfo element 140. Using either a knit structure and a yarn of a kind common to the knitted component 36 and one of the sulco elements 40 and 140 provides a uniform aesthetics, An advantage of giving both of them is provided. Thus, the area of the knit component 36 and the area of the sulpo element 40 or the sulfo element 140 can be varied, for example, in a variety of ways such as color, ductility, biodegradability, durability, abrasion resistance, strength, denier, loft, aesthetic properties, Properties, thermal, hydrophobic, or thermal bonding properties.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention is disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to various configurations. However, the object of the disclosure is not to limit the scope of the invention, but to provide examples of various features and concepts related to the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many changes and modifications may be made to the above described arrangements without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims (21)

A knitted component having a compressible region, a flange region extending outwardly from an end of the compressible region, and at least one peripheral knitted structure extending outwardly from a side of the compressible region, a tongue element,
(A) the regions of the first and second knitted layers are spaced apart from one another to form a cavity in the knitted component, the regions of the first and second layers being spaced apart from one another to form a cavity within the knitted component, the compressive region comprising a first fabric layer and a second fabric layer formed in a single knit configuration, (b) the edges of the first and second knitted layers are bonded to each other at least partially around the cavity, and (c) at least one surrounding knitted structure comprises a first type of knitted structure and a second type of knitted structure ≪ / RTI > The method according to claim 1,
Wherein the compressible region comprises a plurality of free yarn sections disposed within the cavity. delete 3. The method of claim 2,
Wherein the plurality of free yarn sections are a plurality of floating yarns. 3. The method of claim 2,
Wherein the plurality of free yarn sections are formed in a single knit configuration having at least one of a first knit layer and a second knit layer. The method according to claim 1,
Wherein the at least one peripheral knitting structure comprises a first peripheral knitting structure extending outwardly from a first side of the compressible region and a second peripheral knitted structure extending outwardly from a second side of the compressible region, And the two side surfaces are disposed opposite to the first side surface. A knitted component having a compressible region, a flange region extending outwardly from the compressible region, and at least one peripheral knitted structure extending outwardly from a side of the compressible region,
(A) the regions of the first and second knitted layers are spaced apart from one another to form a cavity in the knitted component, the regions of the first and second layers being spaced from one another to form a cavity in the knitted component, the compressive region comprising a first layer of knit and a second layer of knit formed in a single knit configuration, (b) the edges of the first and second knitted layers are joined together at least partially around the cavity, and (c) a plurality of free yarn sections are disposed in the cavity. 8. The method according to claim 2 or 7,
Wherein the plurality of free yarn sections are a plurality of material rings. 8. The method of claim 7,
Wherein the plurality of free yarn sections are formed in a single knit configuration having a first knit layer. 9. The method of claim 8,
Wherein another plurality of free yarn sections are disposed in the cavity and are formed in a single knit configuration having a second knit layer. 8. The method of claim 7,
Wherein the knit component forms a flange in a flange region extending outwardly from one of the first and second knit layers. 8. The method of claim 7,
Wherein the knit component forms a flange in a flange region extending outwardly from each of the first and second knit layers. 8. The method of claim 7,
Wherein the knitted component forms most of the outer side of the sulfo element. A shoe article having an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper,
A first knit component forming at least part of an empty space in the upper to receive the foot and forming an ankle opening providing access to the empty space; And
And a sulpho element coupled to the first knit component,
A second knit component formed in a single knit configuration and forming an internal cavity,
A plurality of free yarn sections disposed within the inner cavity, and
And a peripheral knitting structure extending outwardly from at least one side of the second knit component, the peripheral knit structure being formed of a single knit configuration having a second knit component and being separate from the inner cavity . 15. The method of claim 14,
Wherein the plurality of free yarn sections are a plurality of floating yarns. 15. The method of claim 14,
Wherein the plurality of free yarn sections are a plurality of material rings formed in a single knit configuration having a second knit component. 15. The method of claim 14,
Wherein the second knit component has a compressible region and a flange region extending outwardly from an end of the compressible region, wherein the compressible region forms an inner cavity, and the perimeter knit structure extends outwardly from at least one side of the periphery of the compressible region And the flange region is coupled to the first knit component. 15. The method of claim 14,
Wherein the peripheral knitting structure extends outwardly from opposite sides of the second knit component to form an edge of the sulpo element. 15. The method of claim 14,
Wherein a first knit structure is integrated in an area of a second knit component and a second knit structure is integrated in an area of the peripheral knit structure and the first knit structure is different from the second knit structure. 15. The method of claim 14,
Wherein a yarn of a first type is incorporated into a region of a second knit component and a yarn of a second type is incorporated into the region of the surrounding knit structure wherein the yarns of the first type are different from yarns of the second type. 15. The method of claim 14,
Wherein the peripheral knitted structure is not present at one end of the sulfo element.

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